Aitana Bonmatí spoke to the media following the closing ceremony of her summer football camp in Ribes, where she handed out diplomas to nearly 120 participants.
She revealed ongoing pain in her operated ankle since returning to play: “At first, the pain was described as adaptive, something that happens after a serious injury, but it persists. I will have to progress gradually. With the World Cup coming up next summer, I’ll take it slow because my health comes first. I want to play many more years and take good care of myself.”
Aitana confirmed she underwent extensive medical testing and treatments over the summer with the club and her personal trainer, including magnetotherapy and medication. “This is normal for serious injuries, but I don’t want to play in pain, which intensifies on the pitch. I ended last season regularly taking painkillers. I decided to allow myself time for full recovery. All tests are fine, but healing takes time.”
Regarding past multimillion offers from clubs like Lyon and Chelsea, she was clear: “Important clubs approached me, but I’ve always known where my home is — Barcelona. My role has changed; I’m no longer the young girl with many dreams but a mature player who wants to support young players with patience and understanding.”
On Barcelona’s philosophy, she stated: “The club remains itself regardless of roster changes. Each season presents a new challenge to adapt and prove ourselves.”
She also named Rodri, Messi, and Cubarsí as deserving candidates for the men’s Ballon d’Or based on their recent World Cup performances and achievements.
